Air Conditioning Mistakes That Are Costing You Money
If your energy bills keep going up without any clear explanation, your air conditioner may be to blame. Unfortunately, many homeowners make common mistakes that cause their AC units to work harder than necessary and drive up their energy costs.
In this article, the experts at Robert B Payne share with you some of the most common air conditioning mistakes that could be costing you money:
1. Not changing your air filter regularly
One of the most common air conditioning mistakes is not changing your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter not only reduces the efficiency of your AC unit but also puts unnecessary strain on the system, which can lead to costly repairs down the road. Change your air filter at least once every three months to get the most out of your air conditioner.
2. Not closing your windows and doors
Another common mistake is failing to close your windows and doors when running your air conditioner. Even a small opening can let in a lot of hot air, making your AC unit work harder than necessary. Make sure all your doors and windows are closed tightly when you run your air conditioner to keep the cool air in and the hot air out.
3. Not using a programmable thermostat
If you’re still using a manual thermostat, you’re wasting money on your energy bills. A programmable thermostat can help you save money by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home. Modern programmable thermostats come with a wide range of features, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget.
4. Installing the wrong size AC unit
Another common air conditioning mistake is installing an AC unit that’s too small or too large for your home. An AC unit that’s too small will have to work overtime to cool your home, while an AC unit that’s too large will cool your home too quickly and end up wasting energy. Make sure you get a professional to help you choose the right size AC unit for your home.
5. Not scheduling regular maintenance
Many homeowners forget to schedule regular maintenance for their air conditioner, but this is a crucial step in keeping your AC unit running efficiently. A trained technician can clean and tune up your AC unit, which can help it run more efficiently and prevent costly repairs down the road. Schedule AC maintenance at least once a year to keep your air conditioner running smoothly.
6. Running your AC continuously
Running your AC continuously isn’t a good idea. While it may keep your home cool, it can also drive up your energy costs and shorten the lifespan of your air conditioner. Instead, consider opening some windows for ventilation when possible to keep your home cool without relying on your AC unit all the time.
You don’t stay home all day every day, so why should your air conditioner work all the time? When you leave your home you should turn your thermostat up a few degrees. You can turn it back down when you return. This will save you money on your energy bill and prolong the life of your AC unit.
7. Installing your AC in the wrong location
If your air conditioner is too close to a heat source or in direct sunlight, it will have to work harder than necessary to cool your home. Make sure you install your AC unit in a location where it won’t be exposed to excessive heat or bright sunlight. It should also be placed away from bushes, trees and other structures. The best location for your AC unit is in an open location, even if you may not like it so much.
8. Not using a ceiling fan
A ceiling fan can help you save money on your energy bill by making your room feel cooler without having to lower the temperature on your thermostat. Make sure you’re using a ceiling fan in conjunction with your air conditioner to cut down on home cooling costs.
9. Believing a lower thermostat setting will cool your home quickly
Unlike what most people believe, significantly reducing your thermostat setting won’t make your AC unit work faster. It will only lead to inefficient cooling and unnecessary costs. Try keeping the temperature slightly higher when you’re trying to cool your home quickly and lower it when you want to save money on your energy bill. Set your thermostat to the temperature you want and let your AC unit do its job.
By avoiding these common air conditioning mistakes, you can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long – and save money on your energy bills at the same time.
Contact Us For More on Air Conditioning Mistakes That Are Costing You Money
Robert B Payne provides air conditioning services in Fredericksburg, VA and the nearby communities. We offer a wide range of services, including AC repair, installation and maintenance. We also offer a variety of other HVAC services. For more information call 540-373-5876. Our expert staff will be happy to show you how to care for your AC unit and avoid costly mistakes.